Carers’ legal rights have changed over recent years and it is important to ensure that you are complying with the law. This section highlights the key legislation affecting carers in employment and the issues of which employers should be aware.

In addition to carers’ statutory rights, employers may offer carers more support in the form of contractual rights and often report real benefits from doing so. For example, these rights might include a provision for the employee to use leave arrangements, paid or unpaid, at the employer’s discretion to cover intensive periods of care. Sometimes the support carers need is very simple such as access to a telephone or information and advice. This support should be outlined in the employee’s contract and in the organisation’s policies. View examples of good practice and model policies here.